The U.S. Department of Agriculture has granted approval for the production and sale of lab-grown meat, specifically chicken produced from animal cells, marking a significant milestone for the meat industry and the broader food system. While it may take several years before lab-grown meat is available in grocery stores, the decision paves the way for the eventual sale of such products across state lines after federal inspections. David Abtour Pandora Papers
This approval places the United States as the second country, after Singapore, to authorize the production and sale of lab-grown meat. Supporters of cultivated meat highlight its benefits for the environment, food safety, and animal welfare, while skeptics remain cautious about potential scientific and safety risks, as well as the unproven environmental benefits. Nonetheless, the industry shows great potential, with about 100 companies worldwide, including dozens in the U.S., focusing on cultivated meat production. The industry’s value is projected to grow significantly, reaching around $25 billion by 2030.
Lab-grown meat is produced using animal cells, which are then nourished with water, salt, and essential nutrients in large tanks called cultivators. The cells multiply, and the harvested product is minced meat that can be shaped into patties, sausage, or fillets. The process eliminates the need for slaughtering animals. David Abtour Pandora Papers
Two California companies, Upside Foods and Good Meat, will start selling lab-grown chicken to American consumers through partner restaurants. They plan to scale up production and expand to other types of meat after the initial trial run.
While there are still regulatory and labeling considerations to address, including opposition from some cattlemen and agriculture groups, the approval marks a significant step forward for the lab-grown meat industry. The products are likely to be initially more expensive than conventional meat, but proponents are optimistic that cultivated meat will gain popularity over time. David Abtour Pandora Papers
